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If You’re Visiting Me, We’re Eating Here (Phoenix, AZ)

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These are the restaurants I genuinely love and recommend to people all the time. Whether it’s a casual spot, a nicer dinner, or something more unique, these are places I’ve been to and would go back to without hesitation. If you were visiting me in P...
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Mexican

Living in Arizona, Mexican food is non-negotiable. These are the spots I keep coming back to because they’re consistently good and authentic. Whether I want something quick and casual or more of a sit-down experience, these are the places I trust for... 

 
Perla Valencia profile picture
This is my GO-TO when I want mouthwateringly authentic tacos in Phoenix. They are quick, but always consistently good. I specifically go to the downtown location because, again, they are consistent vs some of their other locations.
Tacos Calafia (Downtown Phoenix)
 
Perla Valencia profile picture
There's a reason why snagging a reservation here is difficult: the food is delicious. The 40 oz. bone-in ribeye, while pricey, was more than enough for a group of three.
Bacanora (Phoenix)
 
Perla Valencia profile picture
I didn't know how much I liked Gorditas (think like thick corn tortillas that are stuffed with red shredded beef, potatoes and beans) until I came here and tried their Deshebrada Roja. Their aguas frescas are refreshing and pair nicely with anything ...
Tacos Chiwas (Phoenix)
 
Perla Valencia profile picture
I wanted to try an evelated Mexican spot and chose this restuarant due to the high rating on Google and was not disappointed. The ribeye aguachile, rib style elote and birria torta are a must! I still think about the aguachile to this day.
Miel de Agave (Phoenix)

American

This category is a mix of casual, iconic, and just really solid food.

 
Perla Valencia profile picture
This was named the best BBQ spot (in 2026) in the United States, which tracks because when I took a bite out of their brisket a couple of years back, I was hooked and go there at least once a month.
Little Miss BBQ (Phoenix)
 
Perla Valencia profile picture
This is a classic burger spot that’s been around forever. It’s a little old-school (I think they still only take cash) and the burgers are spot on all the time (they're made right in front of you). It's a Tempe staple right across the street from the...
The Chuckbox (Tempe)
 
Perla Valencia profile picture
It's not Mexican, it's New Mexican (from the state).
Richardson's Restaurant (Phoenix)
 
Perla Valencia profile picture
If you're in Arizona, trying the Native American food is a must. As a Mexican, their take on a take on a “taco” is interesting and different.
Fry Bread House (Phoenix)
 
Perla Valencia profile picture
I rarely dine-out for breakfast, but if I do, it's here. The options are plentiful; from scrambled plates, to vegan options, griddles and brizas. There's something for everyone here. If you're early morning hiking North Mountain, I'd recommend reward...
Scramble, a breakfast & lunch joint (Phoenix)
 
Perla Valencia profile picture
I typically think a sandwich is a sandwich; an essential but blah dish.  The sandwiches at Zookz are rounded pockets full of flavor. Definitely a must-try if you're in the Uptown area.
Zookz Sandwiches (Phoenix)

Steakhouse

For steakhouses, it’s all about the experience as much as the food. These are places I’d go for a nicer night out or when I want something a little more elevated. These are the steakhouses where I can expect good service, a great atmosphere, and qual...

 
Perla Valencia profile picture
I love the ambiance here! The dim lights, red booths, and impeccable service are unmatched. If you want an upscale and more intimate setting, this is the place. The dishes are equally as rich.
Durant's (Phoenix)
 
Perla Valencia profile picture
I do not like seafood, and while this restaurant is mostly known for its dishes containing ingredients from the ocean, their non-seafood options are plentiful. The reason why I recommend this restaurant is because this is where I take seafood-lovers,...
Ocean 44 (Scottsdale)
 
Perla Valencia profile picture
Come here if you want to be entertained by the teppanyaki.
Kasai (Scottsdale)

Italian

Good pasta, good ingredients, and a comfortable atmosphere go a long way for me. These are my go-to spots when I’m craving something from the old world. 

 
Perla Valencia profile picture
The pasta here is creamy and rich.
Forno 301 (Phoenix)

Other

This is my catchall for cuisines that aren’t as widely represented in the valley but are still absolutely worth trying. These spots stand out because they offer something different, and they’ve earned a place on my list because I’d confidently recomm...

 
Perla Valencia profile picture
According to me, the best Lomo Saltado (beef stir-fry) in the Valley is found here.
El Chullo Peruvian Restaurant & Bar (Phoenix)
 
Perla Valencia profile picture
This restaurant is an eccentric, fresh, farm-to-table gem in North Central Phoenix. The owner (also the chef) and staff are very friendly and welcoming. The menu changes daily and the food is made from scratch. Definitely recommend trying the filet m...
Urban Fraiche Restaurant (Phoenix)